I was raised Catholic. I attended Catholic grade school and high school.

What made you begin to consider a religious vocation? Was there a particular moment or experience you remember as an “epiphany” that led you to your commitment?

It sort of grew slowly. I felt like there was this piece of my heart that I was still looking for and just wasn’t finding. It wasn’t until I met the community that I live in now that I really felt at home.

What is the most difficult part about adjusting to religious life?

It’s been an adjustment for me to get used to not coming and going as I please.

What is the most rewarding part of religious life?

To be living with people who have a common goal in life, and who want to share God’s kingdom with the world. It’s nice to know my community feels that same joy that I feel. I was also surprised by how aware of current events and issues everyone is here.

Who is your spiritual role model? Why?

My grandmother is one. She really insisted I be brought up in the faith. She would go to church at all costs, and she made a lasting impression on my parents and me.

What spiritual gift do you think you bring to the Sisters of Saints Cyril and Methodius?

Probably my ability to appreciate people from all different walks of life. My background is in anthropology, and I think that is a big part of who I am.

What would you tell someone considering a religious vocation who is unsure what steps to take?

The worst thing that could happen is just realizing that it’s not for you—but you won’t realize that until you try it. Just be open! You have so much to gain from it.

When you become a nun, what do you hope to be doing in ten years? Twenty?

I hope to be working with youth somehow.

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If you met Jesus today and could ask him one question, what would it be?

I don’t think I would ask a question. I think I would just thank him for his love and patience with me—and his guidance.

What is your favorite Bible verse?

I have a couple! But my favorite is probably Matthew 6:21: “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” It’s actually the underlying theme of one of my favorite books: The Alchemist. It really speaks to how I discovered my vocation. My heart was really drawn to my community.

What is the last book you read?

Right now I’m reading C.S. Lewis’s The Screwtape Letters.

What do you do for fun?

I like to be outside to read. I also love being in choirs, signing. And I really enjoy scrapbooking.

What would you like to say to donors, who made this grant possible?

I cannot even begin to express how thankful I am to them, for helping me pursue my vocation. Because of their generosity, I am able to begin my formation and to serve God when it would not have been possible otherwise. I am very, very grateful for their help.